Topic– Indian polity : issues
1) Institutional decay occasions worry because it affects ordinary citizens in disastrous ways. Comment in the context of India. (250 words)
Why this question
Off late several institutions have come under the public glare and not always for good reasons. CBI has become so controversial that there is a severe trust deficit in its functioning which have had ramifications for centre state relations etc. The article highlights the importance of institutional strength in a democracy and the issues involved.
Key demand of the question
The question expects us to discuss the importance of strong institutions for a democracy like India and the likely impact that institutional decay can have. We need to provide a commentary on institutional autonomy and strength in the country and discuss way forward.
Directive word
Comment – When you are asked to comment, you have to pick main points and give your ‘opinion’ on them based on evidences or arguments stemming from your wide reading. Your opinion may be for or against, but you must back your argument with evidences.
Structure of the answer
Introduction – Mention that In a democracy, individuals are governed by institutions, and not by men. If we do not live in an institutional universe, we will be at the mercy of capricious individuals. And it is in this context that we need to examine the strength of institutions in the country
Body
- Discuss the importance of having strong institutions in the country – discretionary power is not arbitrarily utilized, eliminate subjectivity, act as a framework etc
- Discuss the impact of weakening of institutions on citizenry
- Give a commentary on the state of institutions in the country and the problem emerging out if it – issues with the CBI and the impact it is having in centre state relations, issues with national statistical commission, RBI, planning commission etc
Conclusion – Give your view on the importance of institutions and discuss way forward.
